nowadays
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for nowadays, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — In the present time, as opposed to the past.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From Middle English, literally "now" + "adays" (meaning "in these days").
Full origin of nowadays →Frequently asked questions
What does “nowadays” mean?
The word “nowadays” means in the present time, as opposed to the past. In plain terms, these days; in modern times, in contrast with how things used to be.
How do you pronounce “nowadays”?
“Nowadays” is pronounced NOW-uh-dayz (/ˈnaʊ.ə.deɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “nowadays” in a sentence?
Here is “nowadays” used in a sentence: “Nowadays most people book their holidays online.”
What part of speech is “nowadays”?
“Nowadays” is an adverb.
Where does the word “nowadays” come from?
The word “nowadays” comes from Middle English. From Middle English, literally "now" + "adays" (meaning "in these days").
Is “nowadays” a common word?
“Nowadays” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between "nowadays" and "now"?
"Now" points to this exact moment ("I'm busy now"), while "nowadays" contrasts the present era with the past, meaning "in these times" ("Nowadays most people shop online"). Use "nowadays" when you are comparing how things are today with how they used to be.
What is the difference between "nowadays" and "these days"?
Both mean "in the present period as opposed to the past," and they are largely interchangeable. "These days" feels slightly more casual and conversational, while "nowadays" sits comfortably in both everyday speech and semi-formal writing.
Where should "nowadays" go in a sentence?
"Nowadays" normally sits at the start or the end of a sentence rather than in the middle ("Nowadays, people work from home" or "People work from home nowadays"). It is an adverb of time and does not need a comma when it comes at the end.